There are over 4000 "street" trees in Montpelier. Street trees are in the public right of way, or trees that are close enough to sidewalks and roadways to have an impact on the public. The health of those trees either enhances the beauty of our right of ways or becomes a hazard.

If you are aware of a tree that is a hazard or needs attention please contact the

Tree Warden, Geoff Beyer at:

gbeyer@montpelier-vt.org

Much more information coming soon about tree health, care and hazards.

Tree Warden

The Tree Warden is a City official with complete authority over all trees, shrubs, or plants in the public right of way of the city that are not under the jurisdiction of the Parks Commission or Cemetery Commission. The Tree Warden may remove or cause to be removed any tree which is in an unsafe condition, presents a hazard to the general public, infected by insects, or is affecting public utility improvements. The Tree Warden also advises the Tree Board and regulatory boards of the City in matters of tree health, care, and maintenance. The Tree Warden can be contacted at the Montpelier Parks and Tree office, 223-7335.

Street Tree Helpers

High School woodshop students make tree grates

In 2011, Jason Miles woodworking class, from Montpelier High, helped build tree guards for five trees that were not protected. Tree grates and guards are typically expensive but important tools to protect street trees from cars, bikes and snow removal devices. Street trees grow with limited soil, water and space. Tree guards also help to prevent the limited soil from becoming too compacted which limited air, oxygen and tree growth. As a result of limited soil, water and air street trees often grow slowly, therefore street trees of almost any size represent big investment which trees pay back in the form of air purifying, storm water control, traffic calming and beautification.
When some students from an advanced woodshop class were looking for projects they ended up signing up to make some experimental tree guards to see if the tree guards could be made:
1. Affordably
2. Beautiful
3. Functional
The tree guards so far are a big success on each point. The last test is to see if they hold up the test of time and all the challenges they face in protecting the trees they surround.

Many thanks to Instructor Jason Miles, Community Based coordinator Matt Mclane, lead student Nick Tilton, Ryan Wells, and Grayson Lavigne for their dedication to doing a such great job and attention their attention to detail!!!